Simon Cowell and the X Factor will aid charities such as Together for Short Lives this Christmas by donating half of the show's winning single's profits to the organization.
In collaboration with Mirror's Christmas Appeal, the news site has revealed that Cowell has agreed to pledge half of the profits from the X Factor winning single to two children's charities, Together for Short Lives and Shooting Star Chase, which help thousands of children who have life-shortening conditions
The Charity Single will be performed at the X Factor final on December 11th and will be available for download as soon as the winner is proclaimed. As of the moment, song choices have yet to be announced.
Cowell, who has son Eric with partner Lauren Silverman, is happy to be able to help ill children and their families as he himself fears to outlive his own child and is more aware than ever of that threat. He shared that "Now that I am a father I understand on a much deeper level how devastating it would be to hear the news that your child was unwell."
He's been helping Together for Short Lives for seven years now and has even become a patron, visiting hospices, hosting tea parties and day outs, and becoming a godfather to Sian, one of the kids he met and befriended.
"I've met some very young kids who have all sorts of very different conditions. It's the spirit and bravery of them all though - the kids and the families - that really shines through and inspires me," says Cowell. In reference to Sian, he credits her personality and sense of humor in making a lasting impression.
In addition, the boss of Together for Short Lives, Barbara Gelb, stated that the Christmas season is especially significant for families as they do not know if it will be their children's last. She added that X Factor's gift will allow the organization to continue in their advocacy, making lives meaningful and transformative.
Similarly, Simon Cowell asks all those who are able to aid the affected families through the difficult times in their lives. He urges people to support the campaign in this season of togetherness.
